The artist of Kalighat paintings are known as:

Question

Accepted Answer

Kalighat paintings are a distinctive form of Indian art that originated in the 19th century in the vicinity of the Kalighat Kali Temple in Kolkata, West Bengal. These paintings are known for their bold, sweeping brushstrokes and vibrant colors, often depicting Hindu deities, mythological characters, and scenes from everyday life. The artists who created these paintings are traditionally known as "Patua."

1. **Explanation for Option 1 (Patua):**
   - The term "Patua" refers to a community of traditional scroll painters and potters in West Bengal. Historically, Patuas have been known for their unique style of painting, which includes the Kalighat paintings. They are itinerant artists who would travel from village to village, narrating stories through their art. The Kalighat paintings, with their distinctive style and themes, are a significant part of the Patua tradition. Therefore, Option 1 is correct because the artists of Kalighat paintings are indeed known as Patua.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**
   - **Option 2 (Chunagar):** The term "Chunagar" does not relate to the artists of Kalighat paintings. Chunagar typically refers to individuals involved in construction work, particularly those who apply lime plaster (chuna) to walls. This term is unrelated to the artistic tradition of Kalighat paintings.
   - **Option 3 (Karigar):** "Karigar" is a generic term used in India to describe craftsmen or artisans. While it broadly encompasses various types of skilled workers, it does not specifically refer to the artists of Kalighat paintings. The specificity of the term "Patua" makes it the correct choice over the more general "Karigar."
   - **Option 4 (Chitera):** "Chitera" is a term that can refer to painters or artists in a general sense. However, it does not specifically denote the artists of Kalighat paintings. The term "Patua" is more precise and culturally specific to the creators of Kalighat art.

In conclusion, the correct answer is Option 1, "Patua," as it accurately identifies the traditional artists associated with Kalighat paintings, distinguishing them from other types of artisans or craftsmen.